How long does therapy last?
The length of therapy depends on each individual. People usually first come to therapy because there is a problem they want to address - such as depression, anxiety, an eating disorder, marital or career problems. Generally, they begin to feel better around 3-6 months after being in treatment. Often the deeper work takes place after the problem is resolved or has diminished. This is when you explore the underlying dynamics that caused the problem in the first place. Some people choose to leave therapy once they feel better. Others choose to stay. It's entirely up to you.

Do we really have to talk about the past? What's the point?
Imagine there is a fire in a building. The flames are growing bigger and hotter. Do you just stand by and figure out what started that fire? No, of course not. You must put that fire out as quickly as possible. Yet if you don't figure out why the fire started, it will flare up again and again.

This imaginary fire represents the problem that brings you to therapy. It's important to feel better quickly. It's also crucial to understand the forces that created that fire. Therapy explores the past in order to make sense of the present.

How often do we meet?
This depends on the nature of the issue that brings you to therapy. Nina will discuss your options with you. In most cases, sessions take place once or twice a week. Sessions are 50 minutes.

What is the fee?
Please feel free to call or email to discuss the current fee schedule. Payment must be made at the end of each session by check, cash or credit card.

What about insurance?
Nina's practice is "fee for service", which means payment is due at each session. If you have insurance, she will provide a monthly statement for you to submit to your insurance company for reimbursement.

What about confidentiality?
Confidentiality is an extremely important legal and ethical issue. Information about your treatment (even the fact that you are in therapy) cannot be disclosed without your written consent. Exceptions include but are not limited to suspected child abuse, elder abuse, dependent adult abuse or when there is a threat of immediate violence to a specified person or when someone is dangerous to him/herself. Your privacy and confidentiality will be strictly protected according to the laws and ethics of the State of California, Board of Behavioral Sciences.